Resources

Cheyenne Gadsden is an educator, mentor, author and founder of Cheyenne’s Purpose LLC. Cheyenne is also the proud author of Dream Big Young One: Believe It, and It Will Come True. Cheyenne’s mission is to help individuals enhance their personal and professional lives by fostering growth, self-discovery, and resilience.

Her faith in Jesus Christ has been the cornerstone of her journey, enabling her to explore and understand herself deeply. This foundation has guided Cheyenne in creating a business that embraces a holistic approach to empowerment and success. Cheyenne firmly believes that “it takes a village to be successful,” and with a transformed mindset rooted in God’s will, we can change the world together.

Charisse Sims is an award-winning parent podcaster, educator recognized by PBS, and author of the children’s mindfulness book Say Their Names, which empowers families to address social and racial injustices. With over two decades of experience in education, Charisse is a passionate advocate for youth literacy and educational equity.

She co-founded the Sims Library of Poetry, transforming her preschool into a vibrant space for literature and creativity. As the Director of Youth Literacy Programs, she fosters connections between educators and students through culturally relevant publishing initiatives.

A PBS Early Learning Champion, Charisse is dedicated to expanding access to educational resources, making a lasting impact on the lives of children and families.

Dr. Tyisha J. Noise has over 24 years of experience supporting underserved students across the country. Her expertise spans K-12 and early college education, with a focus on special education and administrative leadership in middle and high schools. She has built systems to implement best practices and passionately coaches teachers and leaders in academics, special education, athletics, and leadership.

An equity champion, Dr. Noise currently leads county-level initiatives focused on equity for marginalized student populations. Her key projects include piloting culturally responsive after-school programs and driving anti-bias and anti-racism efforts.

Dr. Noise also channels her passion into HeavenSent Kids, her faith-based company that creates uplifting and informative content and products for young children and their families. Her book Heaven Sent: Milo’s First Trip can be purchased on Amazon.

Born and raised in South LA, Alexander James has drawn upon his rich experiences to forge a successful career as a poet, father, truth-teller, and respected expert in his field.

In 2022, Alexander was honored with both the Addy and Webby Awards, cementing his reputation in the creative world. As a distinguished Poetry Coach, he has guided aspiring poets in honing their craft and finding their unique voices.

Central to his work is a powerful guiding principle: “If the truth will set you free, then lies build prisons.” Through his work, he aims to liberate people from the confinements of falsehoods and reveal the freedom that truth can bring.

Alexander’s recent book, called “Just Be Honest,” is a collection of poems described as “an escape plan for all those who are tired of auditioning to be themselves.” Just Be Honest can be purchased in paperback at iamalexanderjames.com.

Dr. Sheryl Evans Davis is an author, changemaker, and Executive Director of the San Francisco Human Rights Commission. A passionate champion of equity, opportunity, and access for all, she was also founding Director of Mo’MAGIC, a program of the San Francisco Public Defender’s office in service of children, youth, and community in the City’s Fillmore District.

Dr. Davis’ recent book, called “Free to Sing,” is about a little Black girl who likes to sing and is encouraged by her mother to embrace song as a way of self expression. Free to Sing can be purchased on the Barnes & Noble website, and in Barnes & Noble locations.